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If you’ve always veered away from hopping in a raft because of stories you’ve heard through the years…have no fear. We’re here to debunk everything you thinkyou know about whitewater rafting. Every experience is different. There may be record-setting high water years. Legendary guides. Perhaps even ghost stories.

Either way, rivers have a natural way of inspiring mythology. Let’s take a closer look at some of those myths:

MYTH #1: Rafting is only for thrill-seekers (FALSE)

Fellow outfitter Peter Grubb describes rapids as the highlight of any whitewater trip, like the punctuation of a poem. “Brief but important. In terms of actual time spent in rapids, it’s small. But the anticipation, then the shared experience running rapids and the subsequent stories make them feel longer,” says Grubb. Outland definitely agrees. It’s about feeling tired but satisfied, bonded with family, friends, and co-workers. You’ll of course get your fair-share of thrills and spills, but the Ocoee also offers beautiful scenery, wildlife, and peaceful moments in nature that are suitable for a variety of ages, abilities, and adrenaline junkies alike.

MYTH #2: All raft guides fit the “stereotype” (FALSE)

Outland Expeditions, Inc. is proud to utilize local guides. If you’re visiting us from far away, you’ll definitely get a taste of the local Ocoee culture and that universal raft-guide spirit. However, not all raft guides are hulking, bearded outdoorsman. Of course, we have those traditional types at Outland, but don’t be surprised to find scientists, soft-spoken academics, and aspiring professionals guiding your raft. Whatever mold our guides are cut from, one thing is for certain: Everyone at Outland has an intense enthusiasm and respect for the outdoors.

MYTH #3: You have to be a great swimmer (FALSE)

All guests on professionally-guided Outland Expeditions, Inc. rafting trips wear personal flotation devices (life jackets). PFDs are meant to float you face-up in the water, should you fall out of the raft. Of course, prior knowledge and experience with swimming will be beneficial to your trip, but it’s not necessary. You don’t even need prior whitewater experience to go down the Ocoee. We’ll teach you everything you need to know, and you’ll walk away with a bit more insight than when you arrived.

MYTH #4 Rafting is only for the athletic-type (FALSE)

Most people think in order to go whitewater rafting you have to be in great shape. That’s not at all true. Pretty much kids and adults of all shapes and sizes can go whitewater rafting. As long as you can get on and off the raft, you should be good to go. However, don’t underestimate the river’s ability to provide you with one amazing workout. If you’re not in the best of shape, you might feel a bit sore the day after a trip. Totally worth it.

MYTH #5: You’ll have a fun and memorable time (TRUE)

Just to clear that up.

BOOK YOUR RAFTING TRIP ON THE OCOEE RIVER WITH OUTLAND EXPEDITIONS, HERE!